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What I've noticed is that the Rits have more depth of tone. When I play a Hailun 161 or 178 with my normal touch, or even play deeper into the keys, I feel that the piano is glossing over the surface of the music, which is fine for a cocktal bar, but not what I necessarily want. When I play a Rit with my normal touch, I feel that the piano is working harder to give me output. This is a personal observation and I'm only one person, so don't fixate on it.

Please pay attention to this comment. This succinctly captures what I felt, but was never able to sum up clearly enough to express.

To the OP, I don't know if you've made a decision yet, but I thought I might as well chime in on your question comparing the Rit and Hailun.

We purchased our Rit GH170R in late 2010 after trying many other pianos, including several Hailuns. The comments above about the tone and touch echo our experience, and we had a definitive preference for the Rit. But when it comes right down to it, I'm sure some Hailun pianos will be superior to some Ritmullers and vice versa, due largely to setup and prep. We love our Rit and have been very pleased with it, but there are many very happy Hailun owners, too.

Even if you don't play, you can plink around on the keys enough to feel how smoothly and fully the keys travel and how the soundboard resonates. Don't be ashamed to do that in a store setting. Many piano shoppers don't know how to play. And, of course, have someone (even the salesman, if necessary) play something a bit more complex so you can hear the tonal differences.

If you want to know my preference, I have a strong preference for the Ritmuller. But no one else can know your preference, and that's what buying a piano is about - you have to find your preference.